If you had to get a tooth extraction to protect your dental wellness, you’re on your way back to a healthier smile. Now, all that’s left for you to do is make sure you’re following the proper aftercare steps to ensure the area heals quickly. Leesburg Family Dental always provides post-op instructions after a tooth extraction but here are some extra tips to promote a speedy recovery.
Get Some Rest
In the 24 hours after you’ve gotten a tooth extraction, it’s important to get as much rest as possible. Don’t over exert yourself. Try to go to bed early so your body can heal properly. If possible, minimize your activity over the next day by not doing anything too physically strenuous.
Elevate Your Head While Sleeping
While you’re resting or sleeping, use a pillow to raise your head slightly. Propping your head up like this can help the extraction area heal faster compared to just lying flat.
Use a Salt Rinse
A simple solution of warm water mixed with salt can do wonders for cleaning the site of your tooth extraction. A day after your procedure, rinse your mouth with a mixture of eight ounces warm water and half a teaspoon of salt. It’s important to wait 24 hours so that you don’t dislodge the blood clot that forms where the tooth was extracted.
Don’t Use a Straw
Speaking of the blood clot, avoid using a straw for the next couple of days after your tooth extraction. That pressure and suction that comes along with using a straw can dislodge the blood clot, which will prolong your healing process.
Use Pain Relievers as Necessary
It’s normal to have a little bit of discomfort right after your tooth extraction as the anesthetic wears off. To manage this as well as inflammation, you can use over-the-counter pain relievers, following the instructions on the package.
Oral Surgery in Leesburg, VA
Looking for more tooth extraction aftercare tips? Or maybe you have some general questions about what’s involved with getting a tooth pulled? Leesburg Family Dental has the information you need! Call or email our practice in Leesburg with your questions and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.
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